Building Permits & Zoning Certificates

Application Process

Building permits are required to establish minimum requirements for the protection of life or limb, health and public welfare and protection of property as it relates to the structures built or existing structures being modified or altered. Application is made at the:
Department of Permits and Inspections
30 N. Market Street
Frederick, MD 21701

Applications must be made in person between the hours of 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., Monday - Friday, excluding holidays. For further information, please select a specific certificate or permit type below.

Approval Requirements

Approval is required for all new construction in the county or in the municipalities, with the exception of the City of Frederick and Mt. Airy. The City of Frederick and Mt. Airy are responsible for their own building permits. Zoning certificates for properties within municipalities must be applied for prior to Building Permit application at the Department of Permits and Inspections. Approval is required for modifications, alterations or changing the usage of any building or structure. Approval is required for accessory structures, such as a shed, pool, deck, garage, sign, etc.

Online Payments

Effective April 15, 2013, Permits and Inspections will now accept credit cards, debit cards and online payments. Pay online on the Pay Permit, Inspection, or Licensing Fee webpage. Please note there is a service on all credit card, debit card and online check transactions.

The service fee for an online check payment is $1.49 per transaction

The service fee for using a credit card or debit card is 2.5% per transaction total.